The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids across various districts in Kerala early Wednesday as part of an investigation into suspected attempts to revive the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) and alleged financial backing for extremist activities. The searches, which began in the early morning, targeted the residences and offices of former PFI office-bearers and its political wing, the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI).
Intelligence inputs prompted the action, indicating clandestine mobilization of funds to sustain banned organizational activities and support extremist operations. In Thrissur district, NIA officials searched the residence of a prominent SDPI leader in Chavakkad, who had previously held a key position in the PFI. The operation, led by a special NIA team from Kochi, involved a detailed examination of the leader’s digital devices and financial records.
Similar searches were carried out in Ernakulam, Malappuram, and Thiruvananthapuram districts, signaling a comprehensive statewide operation. Central Armed Police Forces were deployed at the raid sites to ensure security and prevent any untoward incidents during the searches. The investigation primarily focuses on ascertaining whether the banned PFI is operating through covert networks and proxy platforms, in violation of its 2022 ban for alleged unlawful and terrorist activities.
Authorities are also probing potential misuse of financial channels to support these illicit activities. The current raids stem from information gathered from individuals previously arrested in NIA operations linked to the organization. Seized materials, including electronic data and financial records, are being scrutinized to establish possible connections and funding sources. The NIA is yet to release an official statement outlining the scope of the raids or any preliminary findings.
Further steps are anticipated based on the outcomes of the ongoing searches and analysis.
